Vietnam Attractions - 5 Must See Gems

Among those long lists of Vietnam's must-see attractions, it is essential to stop at big cities Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City to understand the characteristics, lifestyle and culture. However, the most unique scene of the country lays beyond the urban hustle and bustle. Travelers, who are seeking for the best of Vietnam, should consider visiting at least one of these five natural and cultural gems. By including them in your travel bucket list, you will not only discover the country's true beauty, but also finding yourself falling in love with it.

1. SAPA - Hilltop breathtaking views

Located near the northern border, Sapa is home to Vietnam's most beautiful rural vistas that will take your breath away. This type of beauty comes at a price. Vegetation like this occurs because the weather in this region consists of overcasts, monsoons, and temperatures roughly cooler than in the south. For trekkers seeking beautiful lush green mountains, covered by rice paddy terraces, put on hiking boots and expect to get a little muddy. Aside from Sapa's main source of economy, a trip may also include scenic waterfalls, delightsome farmhouses, and local villages along the way. There is no place like Sapa in Vietnam, which is why it always appears in lists of top things to do in Vietnam.

If your trip to Sapa is on the weekend, stop by the Bac Ha market on Sunday and meet the locals from different ethnic groups including Hmong, Giay, and Red Dzao. Learn some simple greetings and share some smiles with the opportunity to see diversity and unity among the local hill tribes. The market has everything from local produce to hand-made fabrics, and souvenirs like keepsake or trinket.

2. HA LONG BAY - New 7 Wonders of Nature
 

Halong Bay was classified as a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. A boat cruise sailing around this captivating bay is one-of-a-lifetime experience and a must-do while in Vietnam. The bay's picturesque unspoiled nature is comprised of around 1,600 to 2,000 limestone islands and islets in various shapes and sizes. Halong Bay day trip or overnight cruise from Hanoi are two most popular tourist activities in Northern Vietnam.


3. The world’s largest cave, Son Doong Cave is in Northern Central Vietnam.
 

The cave is approximately 3 miles long and has its own ecosystem, underground cloud cover, tropical rain forest and flowing river. It is first stumbled across by a Vietnamese local man, Ho Khanh, who was seeking shelter from a passing storm in 1999, but his attempts to find way back to the cave were unsuccessful. It was until 2009, the cave was rediscovered by the British Cave Research Association with the help of Ho Khanh. The cave has been officially open to the public since 2013 and is now accepting tours up to 5 days costing upwards to 3,000 US dollars. A world of its own, untouched by civilization and home to multiple species of wildlife puts Son Doong Cave as a must-see attraction in Vietnam.

4. HOI AN - UNESCO World Heritage Ancient Town
 

Hoi An is simply unique. There are no where in Vietnam that looks like the acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site - Ancient Town. 17th century Eastern architecture, relaxing streets, colorful lanterns, lovely tea houses, tailor shops, amazing cuisine, quiet beach and countryside scene. All combined creates the city’s attractive vibes.

Make sure to check out the icon of Hoi An, the Japanese Bridge at the end of Tran Phu Street. There are numerous museums and traditional houses for a quick visit. A highly recommended activity is renting a bike for an early morning ride around the tranquil Ancient Town, or an 2km adventure to the beach. For those who love shopping, come prepared with an extra suitcase because it is very hard to say no to gorgeous tailor-made clothes, shoes and bags here.

5. Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam’s Paradise Island
 

Gifted with the long East Coast running from North to South, Vietnam has many beautiful beaches, for instance fishing village Quy Nhon, party beach city Nha Trang, resort town Mui Ne. Phu Quoc, located way in the South West, however has the most unexposed white sand beach, crystal clear water, and well-preserved national parks. Luxurious resorts or local homestay, active boat tours or lazy day on the beach, 5-star breakfast buffets or local food stroll at night markets. Phu Quoc island is perfect for everybody no matter what they are looking for in a beach trip. 

Happy travel time in Vietnam. # Travel in Style  # Insight Asia Travel

Ninh Binh, Vietnam listed as one of 50 places to travel in 2018

Whether you're exploring the world solo or taking a romantic trip with a significant other, travel is arguably one of the best ways to spend your time and money.
The start of a new year provides the opportunity to add to your bucket list of destinations, and in the interest of helping you do that, we rounded up some of the best spots to visit in 2018.

Glide along the rivers of Ninh Binh, Vietnam, or wander the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi, Georgia — there's no shortage of countries to discover.

Ninh Binh , Vietnam - John Bill/Shutterstock

Ninh Binh, Vietnam 
Known as the "Halong Bay on Land," Ninh Binh is a small city in Northern Vietnam. Its proximity to Hanoi — 60 miles to the south — is the reason that many overlook the scenic destination.

Nestled into the country's Red River Delta, Ninh Binh boasts impressive topography that includes mountains, limestone cliffs, and forests. Glide along the river in a traditional boat, explore caves in Cuc Phuong National Park, or visit the ancient temples and palaces in Hoa Lu.

Follow the link to see 50 places that should be on your radar this coming year.
http://www.thisisinsider.com/best-places-to-travel-2018-2017-11

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Insight Asia Travel
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Vietnam Airlines, Polish Airlines ink co-operation agreement

Vietnam Airlines (VNA) and LOT Polish Airlines signed a co-operation agreement on Wednesday to bring more benefits and travel options to their passengers.



The co-operation agreement between VNA and LOT will give passengers preferential rates when buying tickets from the two companies. 

The signing ceremony took place as Polish President Andrzej Duda visited Viet Nam from Monday to Wednesday.

Under the agreement, passengers can buy tickets from VNA or LOT to make the journey between Ha Noi/HCM City and Warsaw, Poland via the transshipment points of Paris, Frankfurt, Moscow and London. VNA will carry passengers between Viet Nam and these transit points, while LOT will transport passengers between these transit points and Warsaw.

From Warsaw, passengers can continue their journey on LOT flights to many other Polish and European destinations.

The co-operation agreement also gives passengers preferential rates when buying tickets from VNA or LOT, compared to the purchase of tickets for each leg of every airline to conduct their entire journey.

According to Deputy General Director of Vietnam Airlines Trinh Ngoc Thanh, Vietnam Airlines and LOT have co-operated since 1998.

During the period from 2011-16, the number of visitors between Viet Nam and Poland grew 5.5 per cent per year and reached approximately 24,000 visitors in 2016. Of these, more than 90 per cent were visitors from Poland to Viet Nam.

VNS 

Travel in Style - Insight Asia Travel

TIPS TO MAKE VACATION RELAXED, JOYOUS AND STRESS-FREE

Vacations offer some of the most cherishable moments of one’s life. A good vacation is likely to stay in your memories and make you smile even years after it’s over – so how about you added a bit of planning to ensure that your coveted vacation proceeds as close to perfect as possible?

Listed below are a few basic points that can go a long way in making your getaway more hassle-free, blissful, and comfortable:

1. Choose a Right Destination: 
Choose a right vacation destination for perfect holidays. Some destination may appear in all the top 10 lists of vacation spots you may search on the Internet, but it may not necessarily be the one made for you. To take yourself to just the right place for a change of air, you must first list down your expectations from a vacation and accordingly choose a holiday spot that promises to satiate most of these desires. Weather it is relaxation or a wild adventure you seek, with some research and inquiries you will be able to find your ideal spot.

2. Take Sufficient Time Off From Work
Once you have decided your destination, choose when you want to visit, and how long you wish to spend there, and then accordingly apply for a leave from work. Make sure you give yourself at least two days extra besides the time spent travelling, first to pack and then to unwind after getting back home.

3. Settle Things at Home
If you have kids to attend to, decide carefully about where you wish to leave them while you enjoy a vacation. It is best if you leave the children in the care of a trusted family member or friend. In addition, other minor things at home like watering the garden or periodical checks are best left to a trusted neighbor so that you do not have to bother yourself with domestic thoughts while you are out there to have fun.

4. Pack Thoroughly
Packing all things essential and leaving out all that is unessential will add to a good vacationing experience. Leaving behind things you need, will incur unnecessary expenditure, whereas packing too much will add on extra burden of attending to larger luggage.

5. Book vacation rentals, Cabs, Guides, and Flights Well in Advance
Anticipate all the services you are going to need and try booking them in advance after comparing prices from different vendors – this will help you relax while actually out there, and will most likely fetch valuable early-bird discounts. In case you have previous had a less than pleasant experience with a particular airline or vacation rental; avoid booking on the same again.

6. Look for All-inclusive Vacation Rental Deals
Vacation rental packages that allow shuttle services to nearest destinations and public transport, meals, and beverages are often well suited for a vacation. You will end up saving money and trouble expended on finding these things yourself.

7. Read a Guide on Your Destination
Knowing a place you are about to visit will give you valuable insights on the expected behavioral norms and culture of it. It will also evoke greater curiosity and interest in exploring areas that other tourists may miss out. It is a good idea to read up on your destination to multiply the enjoyment that is in store for you.

8. Stay Miles Away from Stress
Do not let stress mess any of your precious vacation moments. Plan well, pack efficiently, leave for the airport a little before time, keep your passport and visa handy (for international travel), and avoid unnecessary phone calls during the trip.

So get in the optimistic mood, step into your travel shoes, and with an ear-to-ear smile set on to explore the big, beautiful world out there. Hope the checklist above does its job of enhancing your vacation!

VacationCluster.com

New direct flight links Phu Quoc island - Vietnam with Bangkok

Bangkok Airways is the only scheduled airline to fly directly to Phu Quoc Island from Thailand.

Thai carrier Bangkok Airways on Sunday launched its first direct flight from Bangkok to the Vietnamese resort island of Phu Quoc.

Flights are scheduled to operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, and take around 1 hour 45 minutes.

"The aim of this new launch is to provide better flight connections for Thai and Vietnamese customers," said Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, president of Bangkok Airways.

Following Bangkok Airways, British airline TUI Airways has also announced a plan to launch charter flights from the U.K. to Phu Quoc on November 1, while Italian leisure airline Neos has scheduled its first flight from Milan to Phu Quoc in December.

Phu Quoc Island is home to luxury resorts and scenic beaches, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in southern Vietnam.

During the first nine months of this year, Phu Quoc welcomed 2.8 million visitors, well exceeding the target of 1.8 million set at the beginning of this year.

VNexpress

9 Reasons Why Vietnam Belongs on Your Travel List

Spending time in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is exhilarating. The peaceful surrounding countryside, however, is frosting on the cake so it doesn’t make sense to indulge in one without the other. Although having visited twice now, Vietnam is still on my travel list and here’s why you should put it on yours.

The Entrepreneurs  
Ho Chi Minh City is alive with entrepreneurs birthing their own start-ups. We met up with a young friend of my travel partner who just opened his roof-top bar in the heart of the old market area. His plans are in process to open a restaurant in the lower level and a bed/breakfast next door. Start ups are everywhere and Ho Chi Minh City is growing. Vietnamese and Vietnamese-Americans living abroad are returning to the country to open businesses and the movement is affecting the country dramatically. If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, check out the incredible view from the roof-top bar and have an inspiring conversation with the up and coming.  I highly recommend the rice paper pizza.

The Visa-on-Arrival Process Is Easy 
Although US citizens do require a visa to enter Vietnam, securing one is quite simple. First, an approval letter must be obtained in advance of departure. This letter can be provided by any Vietnam International Tour Operator as a complimentary. When we arrived in Saigon, we presented the letter along with one passport photo and $25 US cash for a thirty-day single-entry visa.    

Affordable 
Transportation  We found an affordable airfare and secured it with Chase Ultimate Rewards points but you can also use frequent flyer miles. Once in Ho Chi Minh City, transport is very inexpensive. A 15-minute taxi ride will cost about $2 and even less with Uber. An entire day on the hop on/off bus is around $9. Affordable ferries connect the coastal cities. The Food  I could go on and on about the inexpensive and incredible food in Vietnam. We dined very well on all types of grilled seafood, rice paper pizza, fresh veggies and noodle dishes. You can buy an entire meal for $3-4. Beer is very cheap, 75 cents to a dollar.

The Food 
I could go on and on about the inexpensive and incredible food in Vietnam. We dined very well on all types of grilled seafood, rice paper pizza, fresh veggies and noodle dishes. You can buy an entire meal for $3-4. Beer is very cheap, 75 cents to a dollar.

The Vast Lodging Selection  
No matter your budget, you will find lodging that is perfect for you. If you have hotel loyalty program points, there are plenty of Starwood, Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott properties available for free rooms. The local hotel scene is a bargain however, with three-star properties from $30/night.

The Hospitality  
You might wonder how an American is treated in Vietnam. After all, the Vietnamese only see around 500,000 American tourists each year and that is in the entire country. While I can’t speak for the country as a whole, I know that in Ho Chi Minh City, we were treated very well. We were often asked if we needed help when we stopped to look at a street map and were never approached for a hand out or touted to buy things.

The Affordable Variety of Activities
Where else could you be picked up at your hotel, driven two hours through the Mekong Delta and visit an ancient conclave of several giant Buddhas? Then, you’re taken on a boat ride across the Mekong River into the jungle to visit a coconut candy factory, watch bees making wild honey and experience being serenaded by lovely Vietnamese singers while dining on exotic fruits and drinking local tea. After a visit to the gardens and your opportunity to play with baby pythons, your day continues with another boat ride to an island where a local feast is prepared for you. You’re then transported serenely by row boat down a tributary of the Mekong River with giant palm leaves creating a natural canopy above you.  Peaceful and relaxed you eventually arrive back at your hotel. The day was long, the lunch was delicious but the entire experience sets you back only $25. This is what you can expect in Vietnam.

The History 
You shouldn’t visit Vietnam without learning about the history of the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese Government perspective. Painful but necessary, the country’s history is reflected in the Vietnam you see today so you’ll want to learn more about their story. Don’t miss the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace, both in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Spas  
It’s time to take a deep breath and be pampered. Relish in $4 pedicures/manicures, $10 massages, and endless inexpensive spa treatments. It’s a great way to take a break from the heat and pamper yourself much more than you could afford to at home. Having just explored some of the southern parts of Vietnam, I’m anxious to see how the north compares. I set up an airfare alert for Hanoi and hopeful an affordable airfare will surface. One thing for sure is that if you want a welcoming, exotic, and affordable holiday, you should try Vietnam.

By Christine Krzyszton

Northern Michigan, USA

Whatever your travel style, Vietnam has something for every traveler !

Vietnam is a wonderful country for travelers as there are plenty of areas to explore, indulge and relax throughout the region. Whether you prefer to eat your heart out, embark on an adventure on the back of a motorbike or want to relax at a five-star resort, this solo female traveler’s guide to Vietnam has you covered.

Where to Go

Vietnam is a country that is famous for its spectacular long coastline and there are some amazing spots to relax, as well as explore. One of the most impressive spas to be found along the coast is the stunning Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, which is located in a superb location with a wonderful beach and stunning views of karst formations similar to those found at Ha Long Bay.

Ha Long Bay is also a popular destination for a truly unique experience. Book your stay on a Vietnamese junk boat cruise and sail through limestone islands that reach for the heavens.

In the north of the country, the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi is a beautiful city for great shopping and eating. It’s also a great hub between Ha Long Bay and northern towns such as Sapa.

If you’re interested in having clothes made, the best city to go to is the coastal city of Hoi An. The ancient town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and reflects a well-preserved port town from the 15th to 19th centuries.

If you are heading to south Vietnam, the beautiful bay of Ke Ga has gorgeous beaches and the stylish Princess d’Annam Resort & Spa is a great place to truly unwind.

And definitely don’t miss the hustle and bustle of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), the largest city in Vietnam. With both historical and cosmopolitan areas, there’s so much to explore!

Enjoy the Best of Vietnamese Cuisine

Another reason to travel to Vietnam is to enjoy the local food and, while many areas have a lot of international cuisine, it is well worth seeking out some of the restaurants serving the fresh and spicy tastes of Vietnamese food. Aside from restaurants, be sure to eat plenty of street food while traveling through Vietnam. Street vendors serve up steaming bowls of Pho and other delicious noodle dishes. Be sure to check out ravel blogger, Legal Nomads, who has written extensively about her solo travels in Vietnam and experiences with the unforgettable cuisine.

Experience Vietnamese Culture

After being pampered and tasting the best of Vietnamese cuisine, make sure that you make time to enjoy some of the traditional cultural experiences of the country.

One particularly amazing experience is a homestay with local families and learn to cook traditional meals. The chance to enjoy some ‘Quan ho‘ singing is also one of the best ways to get a taste of the local culture.  It is sung by a quartet of singers, with two girls singing the first line, before being responded to by two male singers.

This is particularly common during Tet, which is the Vietnamese New Year. Watching this performance on the gondolas of Hoan Kiem Lake is a great way to enjoy this cultural event.

Seeing a water puppet show is another cultural experience worth enjoying, where the puppets are held above water and manipulated by long poles beneath the water, which are operated by experienced puppeteers. These puppets are beautifully painted, and the art form is recognized as a key part of the country’s heritage.

By Kiersten